Kyoto‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, Gion, is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting the city, known for its traditional machiya (townhouses), beautiful temples and shrines, and most notably, its geisha culture.
Morning: Exploring Gion’s Traditional Machiya
Start your day by strolling through the narrow streets of Gion, where you’ll find traditional machiya lining the streets. These wooden townhouses, some over a century old, have been converted into shops, restaurants, and tea houses, giving visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Kyoto’s past.
Afternoon: Visiting Gion’s Temples and Shrines
After a delicious lunch at one of Gion’s traditional restaurants, head to the nearby Yasaka Shrine, one of the city’s most famous shrines. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and its role in the annual Gion Matsuri festival.
Next, make your way to the nearby Kennin-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. The temple is known for its beautiful gardens and the artwork on display, including a pair of dragon paintings by the famous artist Sesshu.
Evening: Witnessing Gion’s Geisha Culture
As the sun begins to set, make your way to Hanami-koji Street, known for its traditional teahouses and the opportunity to catch a glimpse of a geiko (Kyoto’s term for geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to work. While it can be difficult to spot one, it’s a truly special experience if you do.
Night: Dining in Gion
For dinner, consider visiting one of Gion’s traditional ryotei restaurants, where you can enjoy a multi-course meal and traditional entertainment, such as music and dance performances by geiko and maiko.
Gion is a neighborhood steeped in tradition and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into Kyoto’s past while also providing plenty of opportunities for modern entertainment and dining. A day spent exploring Gion’s traditional machiya, visiting its temples and shrines, and witnessing its geisha culture is a day well spent in Kyoto.
